Controversial Nigerian televangelist Timothy Omotoso has been officially banned from returning to South Africa for the next five years, following his deportation on Sunday, May 18.
The Department of Home Affairs confirmed that Omotoso was declared a “prohibited person” under the Immigration Act, citing his unlawful presence in the country even after being acquitted of multiple criminal charges.
⚖️ Acquittal Didn’t Secure Legal Stay
Omotoso, leader of the Jesus Dominion International Church, was acquitted by the Gqeberha High Court on April 2, 2025, of 32 serious charges, including:
- Rape
- Human trafficking
- Racketeering
The court pointed to prosecutorial misconduct and a lack of evidence as reasons for the acquittal, bringing an end to a drawn-out, high-profile trial that spanned nearly eight years.
Despite his legal victory, Omotoso remained in the country without legal immigration status, prompting Home Affairs to take swift action.
🚓 Arrested, Released, Then Deported
He was arrested on May 10 in East London, following the Home Affairs Minister’s rejection of his appeal to overturn the prohibited status.
Though granted temporary release on May 12, pending a High Court review, Omotoso instead chose voluntary deportation, officially leaving South Africa on May 18 via OR Tambo International Airport, under escort from immigration and police officials.
🛂 Ban Details
Home Affairs spokesperson Siya Qoza confirmed:
“Mr. Omotoso is banned from re-entering South Africa for a period of five years. After this time, he may apply for reconsideration of his status.”
📌 What’s Next?
While Omotoso’s legal battles in South Africa may be over for now, the immigration ban marks a dramatic end to a turbulent chapter in his controversial ministry’s history in the country.
His church, once based in Port Elizabeth (Gqeberha), now faces an uncertain future without its leader.
🛑 Legal freedom does not always equal the right to stay. The South African government has made clear that immigration laws will be enforced, regardless of courtroom outcomes.
